This Morning's Phillip Schofield: 'I have a great chemistry with Holly'

THIS Morning presenter Phillip Schofield on Dancing On Ice and Holly Willoughby

Phillip Schofield has been on our TV screens since the late 1980s[SAT MAG]

Phillip Schofield has been on our TV screens since the late 1980s, starting his career on children’s programme Going Live!. He has fronted ITV’s This Morning since 2002, as well as other programmes, such as The Cube and Dancing On Ice. Phillip, 52, lives near Henley with his wife Steph. The couple have two daughters, Molly, 20, and Ruby, 18.

How hard was it to do the final Dancing On Ice last month after nine series?

I wanted to go out with real style and dignity. I held it together on the night but when I watched it back the following evening, I was in bits. The timing was right for us to go out on a high note – we were still getting seven, eight million viewers.

You’ve been doing This Morning for years. What keeps it fresh for you?

We have a fantastic connection with the audience and anything can happen because the topics are so adaptable. No two days are the same and we can have a grown-up discussion about sensitive subjects and raise awareness. I have a great chemistry with Holly because we have such a similar sense of humour, and the whole team pulls together.

Do you see Holly outside work?

We have a big group of mutual friends. Holly’s a very good cook and we’re always swapping photos of recipes we’ve tried after a chef has been on the show.

Phillip Schofield with Holly Willoughby [SAT MAG]

How was working with Christine Bleakley on Dancing On Ice?

She is a skilled presenter, very bright, and one of the kindest people I know. She’s an incredible friend.

You’ve been in showbiz for almost 30 years. What’s your secret?

It helps if you are the person in real life that you are on the telly – being genuine is priceless. The TV industry thrives on youth, beauty and vitality, and that’s just the way it is. You have to make sure you’ve carved a big enough niche so that when you get older, you can adapt.

What’s the best showbiz party you’ve ever been to?

It’s not really my thing. I don’t want to be known for going to the opening of an envelope but I do support causes like Samuel L. Jackson’s One For The Boys cancer campaign and the Prince’s Trust.

Why did you get involved with the Prince’s Trust?

It does incredible work, hauling people out of the worst situations, saving their lives and getting them employment. More than 87p in every £1 goes directly to the Trust’s work. Being an ambassador is more than just attending an event, I really care about what I do with them.

Phillip Schofield is an ambassador for youth charity the Prince’s Trust, which helps disadvantaged young people turn their lives around. To donate, go to princes-trust.org.uk/donate.